A bill to allow the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is the subject of a hearing Tuesday before the Senate Law and Justice Committee.

The legislation would permit people with medical needs and a doctor's approval to obtain an identification card that would enable them to buy pot legally. It also would set up a state Medical Cannabis Board and an enforcement arm within the state police.

Gov. Tom Corbett remains opposed the measure, even if it's amended to allow only non-intoxicating marijuana.

Sen. Daylin Leach, a Democrat from Montgomery County and a leading sponsor, says the bill would help sick children who are barred by law from taking a medicine that will make them better.

News 8 On Your Side government reporter Pete Muntean said no seat is empty inside the hearing and that many who are testifying are parents of sick children.

"As Marijuana is practically ubiquitous in our society, and it always falls in the wrong hands. But outdated laws prevents this from getting in the right hands which is ours," testified Dina Kenny, whose 17-year-old son suffers from seizures, which she says could be treated with medicinal marijuana.